ESPN Secures Big South Broadcasting Rights Until 2031
ESPN has secured the broadcasting rights for the Big South Conference through the 2030-31 academic year. This renewal continues a partnership that began in 1991 and represents a significant commitment to college athletics in the southern region. The agreement allows ESPN to showcase up to 50 events on its linear channels.
Key Highlights of the Agreement
- Duration: The agreement runs until the end of the 2030-31 academic year.
- Primary Home: Big South events will largely remain on the ESPN+ streaming service, active since 2018.
- Sports Covered: The package includes various sports such as:
- American football
- Men’s and women’s basketball
- Soccer
- Women’s volleyball
- Lacrosse
- Baseball
- Softball
Participating Institutions
The Big South Conference comprises nine universities including:
- Charleston Southern
- Gardner-Webb
- High Point
- Longwood
- Presbyterian
- Radford
- UNC Asheville
- USC Upstate
- Winthrop
Broadcasting Details
Under the new deal, ESPN’s linear channels will broadcast key games, including:
- The men’s basketball championship game on ESPN or ESPN2.
- The women’s basketball championship game on ESPNU.
- Six regular-season games on ESPNU, with at least four of them being men’s basketball games.
- Additional opportunities through ESPNU or ESPNEWS.
Statement from Big South Commissioner
Big South Commissioner Sherika A. Montgomery expressed that this extension highlights ESPN’s dedication to the conference. She noted the agreement enhances visibility and recognition, allowing student-athletes to share their accomplishments with a broader audience.
Broader Context of ESPN’s College Sports Deals
This renewal comes shortly after a similar six-year deal with the Big East Conference, which guarantees a substantial number of women’s basketball and Olympic sports events on ESPN+. Other significant agreements include:
- A renewed deal with the Atlantic Coast Conference through 2035-36.
- An eight-year, $920 million agreement with the NCAA announced in January 2024, covering various championships and major sports.
With these strategic partnerships, ESPN continues to strengthen its position in college sports broadcasting, providing extensive platforms for athletic competition and audience engagement.
